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Bassam Kousa reveals the truth about his friendship with Bashar al-Assad and his opinion of the regime

Bassam Kousa denies his friendship with Bashar al-Assad in the podcast "I Have a Question," and clarifies his position on the Syrian regime and Mazen al-Natour, calling for reason and logic to prevail in Syria.

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Bassam Kousa reveals the truth about his friendship with Bashar al-Assad and his opinion of the regime

The veteran Syrian star Bassam Kousa sparked widespread controversy and significant interaction across social media platforms, following his recent statements in which he clearly revealed the nature of his relationship with the head of the Syrian regime, Bashar al-Assad, putting an end to the rumors that had circulated for years about the existence of a personal friendship between them.

The truth about the personal relationship with the lion

During his appearance on the podcast "I Have a Question" with journalist Mohammed Qais, Kousa categorically denied any personal friendship with Assad, explaining that their meetings were exclusively within groups of artists and were strictly formal. Kousa emphasized that the respect Assad showed him was not due to favoritism or flattery, but rather because Kousa "never asked for anything" from the regime.

The Syrian artist stressed that he did not receive any material privileges or positions from the regime, refuting the rumors that spoke of him being gifted a house, as he said in a decisive tone: “Whoever speaks of him gifting me a house is pure fabrication. He does not give gifts, you ask and he gives to you, and this has never happened.”.

Responding to Mazen Al-Natour and avoiding personal attacks

In a related context, Kousa referred to a source he described as a "friend of the president," indicating that the artist Mazen Al-Natour was the one who coined this term. Despite this, Kousa refrained from responding to the attack, recalling the bond they shared and describing Al-Natour as a "noble person." However, Kousa drew a red line regarding his family, demanding that his wife and children not be drawn into these political debates, emphasizing that they have only ever seen Assad on television.

A different political description: an investment system

Bassam Kousa offered a compelling political analysis of the Syrian regime, rejecting the term "sectarian regime," commonly used in opposition literature, and instead describing it as an "investment regime." He explained his viewpoint, saying, "The regime exploited religion, merchants, art, and sectarianism for its own benefit, and this is an accurate description of reality, neither praise nor condemnation.".

General context: Syrian artists in the eye of the storm

Kousa's statements highlight the dilemma faced by Syrian artists since the outbreak of the crisis in 2011. Many drama stars found themselves under intense scrutiny, pressured to take a firm political stance, either for or against the regime. Bassam Kousa is among the artists who chose to remain inside Syria, which exposed him to pressure and varying interpretations of his positions. However, he has always maintained a critical distance, refusing to be swayed by emotional slogans.

The need for a "third voice" and a cool head

In closing, Koussa reiterated his call for reason and wisdom, noting that Syria has always needed a "third voice" that avoids extremism and fanaticism. He strongly criticized the policy of mutual accusations of treason and apostasy among the conflicting parties, describing it as the work of "hotheads" that achieve nothing. He emphasized that nations are not built on emotions but on "cool heads" capable of thinking logically to find real solutions to crises. He refused to apologize for his previous positions, asking rhetorically, "What am I sorry for? What did I do?!".

The Saudi News Network first launched on Twitter via its official account, @SaudiNews50, and quickly became one of the Kingdom's leading independent news sources, thanks to its fast and reliable coverage of major local and international events. Due to the growing trust of its followers, the network expanded by launching its website, a comprehensive news platform offering regularly updated content in the fields of politics, economics, health, education, and national events, presented in a professional style that meets the public's expectations. The network strives to enhance public awareness and provide accurate information in a timely manner through on-the-ground reporting, in-depth analysis, and a specialized editorial team, making it a trusted source for anyone seeking up-to-the-minute Saudi news.

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Culture and Art

Al-Daheeh ends his contract with New Media after 4.7 billion views

The Al-Daheeh program announced the end of its journey with New Media after five years and 4.7 billion views. Learn the details of the cancellation and the truth about Ahmed El-Ghandour's imminent return.

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Al-Daheeh ends his contract with New Media after 4.7 billion views

One of the most prominent partnerships in the world of Arab digital content creation has officially come to an end, as the “Al-Daheeh” program, presented by the famous content creator Ahmed Al-Ghandour, announced the end of its journey with “New Media” after a five-year run, during which the program’s episodes achieved record numbers and unprecedented public interaction.

End of an era and a new beginning

In an official statement published on the program's official Facebook page, the team bid farewell to the audience and the production company with heartfelt words, emphasizing that this step represents the end of one chapter of the program, not the end of the concept. The post read: "After nearly five years on air, El Da7ee7 reaches the end of its journey with New Media. Indeed, we began with a simple idea: to make knowledge more accessible and the world less monotonous.".

The statement explained how the idea evolved from mere educational content into a societal phenomenon, saying: “This idea has transformed into a community of dear viewers who have grown up with us and we with them, so we have learned together and shared curiosity.”.

Astronomical figures and a transboundary impact

"Al-Daheeh" was more than just a fleeting program; it transformed into a sweeping digital phenomenon. The statement revealed that the show's episodes garnered over 4.7 billion views across various digital platforms during its years of partnership with New Media. The team commented on this staggering figure with a touch of humanity: "Behind every number on the screen is a human being who gave us their time and energy to tell them a story about the world."

This figure is conclusive proof of the success of the “Al-Ghandour” approach to simplifying science (Pop Science), as he was able to combine comedy with complex academic information, making scientific content palatable to millions in the Arab world, thus surpassing many traditional entertainment programs.

Companion of students and expatriates

The statement addressed the profound social impact the program had on its viewers, noting that "Al-Daheeh" was more than just entertainment; it was a daily companion. The post continued: "Al-Daheeh entered schools, universities, and minibuses; he was a companion on journeys and a friend during times of hardship. On trains and in airports, during long waits, he was a welcome presence with whom we shared meals... and he was the reason for many people's peaceful sleep.".

This impact reflects the added value provided by the program, as it became an informal reference for students and a means of self-education for broad segments of the Arab public, thus contributing to the promotion of the culture of "edutainment" in the region.

Has Al-Daheeh stopped for good?

Despite the farewell tone, the post's conclusion held good news for followers, hinting that the hiatus was temporary and that a return was imminent. The team concluded the statement by thanking their partners and audience, saying: "Thank you to all the team members who contributed to this experience and to our partners on this journey. Thank you to the platform that supported and embraced us. Thank you, dear viewers... Until we meet again soon with new resources.".

The phrase “until we meet again soon and with new sources” confirms that Ahmed El Ghandour and his team are preparing for a new phase, which may include different production partnerships or a new format for the show, leaving the door open for speculation about the future of one of the most famous Arabic content programs ever.

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Culture and Art

Maha Nassar and Hussein El-Manbawy divorced during the filming of the series "Immunity"

Details of Maha Nassar and Hussein Al-Manbawi's official divorce on the set of the series "Manaa" starring Hend Sabry, and the continuation of their work together despite the separation in the series "Manaa" and "Al-Matar".

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Maha Nassar and Hussein El-Manbawy divorced during the filming of the series "Immunity"

In an unexpected surprise that shook the artistic community as the Ramadan season approached, the set of the series “Immunity,” starring Hend Sabry, witnessed the end of the marital life between artist Maha Nassar and director Hussein El-Manbawy, as the divorce was officially finalized after a marriage that lasted nearly five years, amidst a state of astonishment among the crew.

Behind the scenes of the dispute and separation on the film set

Sources close to the production team confirmed that tensions had been running high between the couple on set in recent days. The disagreements began gradually and escalated until they reached an impasse, leading both parties to decide on a final separation and official divorce while still busy filming scenes for the series scheduled to air next Ramadan.

Professionalism prevails despite personal pain

Despite the difficult situation and its natural psychological impact, the couple set an example of professionalism; both Maha Nassar and Hussein El-Manbawy are committed to the filming schedule for the series "Mana'a" (Immunity). Reports indicate that the separation has not negatively affected the workflow or the timeline set for meeting the Ramadan season deadline, as they continue to work together to produce the series in the best possible way, completely separating their now-dead personal lives from their professional obligations.

Ongoing artistic partnership at “The Meter”

The collaboration between Maha Nassar and her ex-husband Hussein El-Manbawy this season isn't limited to the series "Mana'a" (Immunity). They are also working together on another major drama project, the series "El-Metr" (The Meter), starring Amr Saad. Maha has already completed filming approximately two weeks' worth of her scenes in this project, and filming is scheduled to resume after the end of Ramadan, confirming the continuation of their artistic partnership despite their marital separation.

A history of shared successes and a love story

The couple's relationship dates back to 2020, when their love story blossomed during their first collaboration on the hit series "Al-Fatwa," starring Yasser Galal. This romance culminated in marriage in 2021, and the following years saw a series of successful artistic collaborations that demonstrated a special artistic chemistry between the director and his wife, the actress.

Among their most notable collaborations after marriage was the 2022 series "Jazirat Ghamam," which garnered widespread critical acclaim and starred Tarek Lotfy, Mai Ezz El-Din, and Fathy Abdel Wahab. That same year, they worked together on the series "Akher Dor," starring Dina El Sherbiny, culminating in the 2023 Ramadan series "Souq El Kanto," starring Amir Karara and Mai Ezz El-Din. Today's news of their divorce brings their married life to a close, while their artistic work remains a testament to a significant phase in their professional careers.

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Culture and Art

Mona El Shazly supports Sherine Abdel Wahab: Her voice makes me cry and I hope she returns

Mona El Shazly expresses her sadness over Sherine Abdel Wahab’s crises and affirms her support for her, while Ayman Bahgat Qamar calls on the public to separate her personal life from her art, praising the success of her recent songs.

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Mona El Shazly supports Sherine Abdel Wahab: Her voice makes me cry and I hope she returns

In an episode filled with human emotion and artistic support, the prominent Egyptian media personality Mona El-Shazly her deep sadness and profound concern for the circumstances that star Sherine Abdel Wahab , stressing that Sherine's voice is no longer just a means of entertainment, but has become a sensitive chord of pain within her due to the successive crises that the artist is experiencing.

A touching message: Your voice makes me cry

During her appearance on her popular show "Ma'akum" (With You) on ON TV, Shazly revealed her conflicting emotions when listening to Sherine's new or old songs. Visibly moved, she said, "Any song I listen to by Sherine Abdel Wahab, even if it's upbeat and catchy, almost makes me cry. I feel a deep sadness because of the difficult circumstances surrounding her." She added, describing her feelings, "I'm heartbroken for this great voice because its owner is suffering.".

Al-Shazly did not merely express sadness, but also directed a strong message of hope and support to “Sawt Masr” (Voice of Egypt), wishing it to regain happiness and peace of mind, and the ability to overcome the psychological and personal obstacles that kept it away from its wide audience for periods of time.

Sherine Abdel Wahab: An icon who defies crises

Mona El-Shazly's remarks come at a difficult time for Sherine Abdel Wahab, a period that has captured the attention of the Egyptian and Arab public. Sherine is considered one of the most important voices in the Arab world over the past two decades, with her songs becoming part of the collective memory of her audience. Despite personal and legal challenges with production companies, Sherine continues to strive for artistic success, demonstrating a determination to persevere through the storms.

Critics believe that the media and public's sympathy for Sherine stems from her huge artistic record and her influence extending from the Atlantic to the Gulf, where she is not seen as an ordinary singer, but as a special artistic case characterized by spontaneity and a unique talent that is rarely repeated.

Ayman Bahgat Qamar: Separate art from personal life

In the same vein, during his appearance on the same program, screenwriter and lyricist Ayman Bahgat Qamar the need to change the public's perception and treatment of artists. Qamar called for a complete separation between the personal life of artist Sherine Abdel Wahab and her artistic work.

Qamar questioned the excessive focus on personal details, asking, "Why are we preoccupied with her personal problems?" He emphasized that the sole criterion for judgment should be the quality of the artwork. He cited his own experience, explaining that an artist might appear smiling in interviews or write cheerful words while their heart aches with pain; therefore, appearances don't reflect reality, and the audience only gets the "final product.".

A resounding success outside the box

Ayman Bahgat Qamar pointed to a crucial point regarding Sherine's artistic strength, noting her recent and dazzling success in the collection of songs she released recently in collaboration with a select group of music producers such as Aziz El Shafei , Tamer Hussein , Madian , and distributor Touma .

Qamar emphasized that these works achieved widespread popularity and "broke the world" - as he put it - despite the absence of traditional production support and the lack of a production company behind them in light of the ongoing conflicts, which proves that Sherine's talent is capable of imposing itself under any circumstances, and that the public is always eager for her sophisticated art away from the din of crises.

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